PREVIEW: Athletic Bilbao vs Elfsborg Prediction, Head to Head, Team News, and Possible Lineups | UEFA Europa League.
- Tournament: UEFA Europa League
- Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024
- Time: 5:45 PM GMT
- Venue: San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao, Spain
The UEFA Europa League returns with a crucial Group Stage encounter between Athletic Bilbao and Swedish side Elfsborg. Both teams have all to play for, as the battle for qualification to the knockout rounds intensifies. With Athletic eyeing a place at the top of the group and Elfsborg fighting to stay in contention, this match promises to be a thrilling contest.
Current Form and Standings
Athletic Bilbao
Athletic Bilbao have enjoyed a strong start in the Europa League this season. After four matches, they remain unbeaten, sitting comfortably in sixth place overall with 10 points. Here’s their journey so far:
- Matchday 1: Drew 1-1 with AS Roma
- Matchday 2: Defeated AZ Alkmaar 2-0
- Matchday 3: Beat Slavia Praha 1-0
- Matchday 4: Edged out Ludogorets 2-1
Bilbao’s performances have been characterized by a resolute defense and effective counter-attacks. With three wins and a draw, they are on the brink of qualification and could seal their spot in the knockout stages with another victory.
Elfsborg
Elfsborg’s Europa League campaign has been a rollercoaster. Currently 24th in the standings with just four points, they must secure a positive result to stay in the race for the playoffs. Here’s how they’ve fared:
- Matchday 1: Narrow 3-2 loss to AZ Alkmaar
- Matchday 2: Surprise 1-0 win against AS Roma
- Matchday 3: Heartbreaking 4-3 defeat to Galatasaray
- Matchday 4: Battled to a 1-1 draw with Braga
Despite their low standing, Elfsborg have shown they can compete with top teams, making them a potential threat to Athletic Bilbao.
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Team News
Athletic Bilbao
The hosts head into the match with a full-strength squad. Key players like Nico Williams and Inaki Williams are fit and available, giving manager Ernesto Valverde a wide range of options.
Elfsborg
The Swedish side will be without star forward Per Frick, who is sidelined for the season due to injury. However, the rest of the squad is fit, and manager Jimmy Thelin will rely heavily on the attacking prowess of Michael Baidoo to cause an upset.
Predicted Lineups
Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Julen Agirrezabala
- Defenders: Oscar de Marcos, Daniel Vivian, Yeray Alvarez, Yuri Berchiche
- Midfielders: Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta, Benat Prados
- Attackers: Nico Williams, Oihan Sancet, Alvaro Djalo
- Striker: Inaki Williams
Elfsborg (3-4-3):
- Goalkeeper: Isak Pettersson
- Defenders: Sebastian Holmen, Ibrahim Buhari, Terry Yegbe
- Midfielders: Simon Hedlund, Timothy Noor Ouma, Andri Fannar Baldursson, Niklas Hult
- Attackers: Ahmed Qasem, Michael Baidoo, Arber Zeneli
Key Players to Watch
Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
Nico Williams remains a vital player for Bilbao. The young winger has dazzled fans with his speed and technical skills, becoming a key component of the team’s attacking setup. Although his form has been inconsistent this season, he will look to add to his Europa League tally of one goal and one assist in this crucial encounter.
Michael Baidoo (Elfsborg)
Elfsborg’s hopes rest largely on Michael Baidoo, their prolific striker. With two goals in four Europa League matches and five goals in domestic competitions, Baidoo has proven his ability to deliver on big occasions. His movement and sharp finishing make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
Inaki Williams, the elder of the Williams brothers, brings experience and a knack for scoring crucial goals. His ability to lead the line and link up with midfielders will be essential for Bilbao’s attack.
Ahmed Qasem (Elfsborg)
Qasem’s creativity and ability to exploit spaces will be critical for Elfsborg as they seek to breach Bilbao’s defense. With his eye for a decisive pass, he could provide the spark they need.
Match Prediction
This match holds significant importance for both sides, but Athletic Bilbao enters as the firm favorite. The Spanish club is unbeaten in the Europa League this season and boasts a strong home record at the iconic San Mamés Stadium.
Soccer Baba Predicted Score: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Elfsborg
While Elfsborg will fight hard to keep their knockout hopes alive, Athletic’s superior quality and home advantage should see them through.
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Where to Watch Athletic Bilbao vs Elfsborg Live
| Country | Broadcaster |
|---|---|
| USA | CBS Sports |
| UK | TNT Sports |
| India | Sony Liv |
| Spain | Movistar |
| Sweden | Disney+ |
Additional Insights
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Athletic Bilbao and Elfsborg.
San Mamés Advantage
Athletic Bilbao has a formidable record at home in European competitions, making them a daunting opponent for visiting teams.
Elfsborg’s Grit
Despite their position, Elfsborg has demonstrated resilience and a knack for pulling off surprises, as seen in their win over AS Roma.
Conclusion
The clash between Athletic Bilbao and Elfsborg is set to be an exciting Europa League encounter. While Athletic is the favorite, Elfsborg’s determination and unpredictability could make for a closely contested game. Fans can expect a high-intensity match with plenty of goal-scoring opportunities.
